The Playbook Podcast Trump’s Asia trip heats up as the shutdown drags on
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Oct 28, 2025 President Trump meets Japan's new prime minister amid a tense government shutdown. Discussing 2028 ambitions, they explore potential successors like Rubio and Vance. As leaders catch World Series moments, the podcast highlights the diplomatic dance required to engage Trump. Questions arise about the implications of Trump's upcoming meeting with Xi, while the impact of the prolonged shutdown looms large. With elections just around the corner, the discussion shifts to redistricting battles and gerrymandering's ironic logic.
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Trump Teases Successor Scenarios
- Donald Trump joked about potential successors and mused publicly about Marco Rubio and J.D. Vance as an "unstopppable" duo.
- Dasha Burns and Jack Blanchard discussed how Trump toys with the idea and frames a two-horse race for his successor.
Rubio Gains Real Influence
- Marco Rubio has shifted from being doubted to earning Trump's trust and influence in foreign policy.
- Dasha notes Rubio's fingerprints now shape administration posture on Latin America and Russia/Ukraine.
Ceremonial Diplomacy And Cherry Trees
- Japan's new prime minister delayed the public meeting to watch Shohei Ohtani in the World Series while Trump waited.
- They exchanged compliments and she gifted 250 cherry trees to DC during the ceremonial portion.